This recently-released single from Illinois combo Red Spot Rhythm Section is a most apt statement on the year as a whole and fits perfectly as the capper to this “non-traditional holiday music” series of new releases.

The brainchild of Chicago-based musician and multimedia artist Joshua Siegal, Red Spot Rhythm Section fuses Americana, indie folk and world beat on this new single “Hard to Give Thanks” b/w “Foundation.”

In March, 2020, the Red Spot Rhythm Section went into the studio to begin recording a new two-song single, but unfortunately the studio’s doors had to close – along with most businesses – before the end of the month. Undaunted, the group continued to work with the engineer and guest artists remotely, while recording additional parts at their home.  

The single features the guest talents of Shane Jonas (Akasha, Lowdown Brass Band) on vocals, Mike Bruno (Spare Parts) on drums, and Michael Bizar (A.J. Croce) on lead guitar.   “Hard To Give Thanks” is a short but rollicking tune with an outlaw-country back-beat and a melancholy message.

“Hard To Give Thanks” is a short but rollicking tune with an outlaw-country back-beat and a melancholy message. “Foundation” is a love letter to the future with a jammy feel and world-music overtones. “Hard To Give Thanks”/”Foundation” is a result of the love, effort, and hope of everyone involved.

“Hard To Give Thanks” and “Foundation” is currently available on all streaming services, etc.

https://redspotrhythmsection.com/

By Rob Ross

Rob Ross has been involved in the music industry for over 30 years - as guitarist/singer/songwriter with The Punch Line, freelance journalist, producer, manager and working for independent and major record labels. He resides in Staten Island, New York with his wife and cats; he works out a lot, reads voraciously, loves Big Star, traveling down South and his orange Gretsch. He's pretty groovy!